Getting through grief

Sadly, there’s no quick fix to erase the feelings brought on from grief. It's one of those things that you have to feel to its full extent before being able to heal, but there are steps you can take to ease the hard emotions. 

1. Invest in your support system

Your family and friends are either grieving too, or can empathise with what you’re going through. Lean into them for support at this time. Everyone knows death is hard so talk to them about it, they may have some helpful advice. But if talking about it is too hard, there's no pressure to do so, just spending time with loved ones can help to lift your mood and prevent the urge to isolate. Wallowing in your bad mood, no matter how tempting, won't be helpful in the long run. 

2. Self care is key

At this time of year the winter blues are already hitting hard, so having grief as an extra battle to fight through is not ideal. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential. Go on walks to take your mind off things, they are perfect for clearing your head. Don’t let your diet take a backseat, comfort food isn't a crime but don’t over indulge. It will give you a false sense of respite but it won’t really make you feel better. Have a bath, do a face and drink herbal tea to try and relax yourself. You deserve to have time to unwind and have a small moment of peace. You may not want to, but you can’t spend every moment in sorrow.  A bubble bath won’t fix the heartache and it surely won’t bring them back but taking care of yourself is important because life is precious, you know that all too well now.

3. Make time to do what makes you happy

After death you realise how finite life really is. Now is the time to do what truly serves you. Write that book you always wanted to, go on that hike everyone said you couldn't do. If skydiving has always been on your bucket list then finally tick it off. Don’t put your life on hold and let your life pass you by. Let your grief inspire you and motivate you to see the value in each day. Let it fuel you to start doing stuff that truly gives you joy. You deserve it. 

Edited by Marianne Hamilton